"A Family Affair": Methods of Dealing With Parents and Family Members of Children in the Nuclear Medicine Department

Objectives: Oftentimes, the work of a physician involves not only caring for the patient, but also their loved ones. When patients come into the nuclear medicine department for a scan, they are frequently accompanied by a family member. This is especially true for children, who are brought in by their parents or caregiver. It is important not only to communicate with the patient, but with their families as well. In this project, we discuss methods of dealing with family members and the importance of open communication. Interacting with parents and family members promotes increased trust and bonding, which becomes particularly important in cases where scans go awry.

Methods: We discuss methods of dealing with family members and parents of children being scanned in the nuclear medicine department. We emphasize the importance of communicating with family members throughout the process. Thorough communication helps family members understand the scanning process, the length of the scan, and any potential adverse events. Empathy plays an important role when dealing with patient’s family members, particularly if the patient is a child. Additionally, providers ensure that the family members understand what is being communicated; using medical jargon, for example, may cause confusion.

Results: Open and thoughtful communication with parents and family members of patients helps build trust. In instances where complications arise during a scan, a good rapport may help keep families calm. Having a connection with families may even decrease the likelihood of malpractice lawsuits in these situations.

Conclusions: Communicating effectively with family members helps keep them aware of the patient’s situation in the nuclear medicine department; being informative and empathic may help prevent malpractice lawsuits and negative interactions.